Health & Fitness
Life as a 'Rookie' Firefighter in Beverly Hills
Learn what it's like to be a rookie at the Beverly Hills Fire Department.
Firefighter Mike Cherry shares his experience being a rookie with the :
It is difficult to convey my experience as a probationary Beverly Hills firefighter (commonly referred to as “rookie”) without first describing the rigorous hiring process.
The hiring process at Beverly Hills extended over a period of approximately nine months, and included an aptitude test, several interviews, medical and psychological evaluations, as well as a thorough background investigation, which included a polygraph test.
From the beginning, it was clear that Beverly Hills Fire Department (BHFD) had high expectations for their firefighters. Knowing the level of excellence expected, I mentally prepared for a challenging probationary year. I understood the physical and emotional toll it might take, the new relationships that I would have to build, and the hard work and effort that the entire year would involve.
The most difficult challenge of the year would be to establish a positive reputation, form productive working relationships, and earn trust throughout the department that would weather the next 30 years.
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